Government activates plan to protect consumers as severe drought declared in parts of England

The Government has declared severe drought in parts of Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, East Sussex and West Sussex, prompting water companies to escalate drought planning. The South East and South West have recorded their driest April-to-September period in over a century, straining reservoir levels. While household supplies remain secure, the declaration triggers proactive steps to prevent future shortages. Water Minister Emma Hardy has directed the Environment Agency to prioritise public water supplies, allowing companies to retain more water in depleted reservoirs despite environmental trade-offs.

Water Minister Emma Hardy stated this is the most severe drought in decades and called for voluntary water conservation. The Government also highlighted its strengthened Water Bill aimed at regaining public control over water companies. Long-term plans include nine new reservoirs and £104 billion in infrastructure upgrades to improve water resilience after years of underinvestment.

The announcement follows a meeting of the National Drought Group, which coordinates responses to unprecedented dry weather. The group, including the Met Office, regulators, water companies, farmers and conservation experts, has urged reduced water use to protect supplies and ecosystems. Recovery depends on rainfall and reduced consumption, as water companies are expected to implement drought plans immediately.

Today’s measures build on broader Government efforts to strengthen the UK’s water security. Changes to planning rules aim to accelerate reservoir construction, while infrastructure investment targets long-term resilience. The Government has convened the National Drought Group regularly since August to hold organisations accountable for their drought response.